Bareilly Court Summons Owaisi Over “Jai Palestine” Oath Remark

Jai Palestine

A Bareilly court has issued a notice to All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) President Asaduddin Owaisi, instructing him to appear for a hearing on January 7, 2025.

The notice stems from a case filed by advocate Virendra Gupta, alleging that Owaisi violated constitutional and legal norms by raising pro-Palestine slogans during his oath as a Member of Parliament.

The controversy began in June when Owaisi concluded his Lok Sabha oath with the phrases, “Jai Bhim, Jai Meem, Jai Telangana, Jai Palestine.” This incident occurred after his fifth consecutive electoral victory from Hyderabad, where he defeated BJP candidate Madhavi Latha Kompella by an impressive margin of 3,38,087 votes.

Speaking to the media about the incident, Owaisi defended his choice of words, stating, “Everyone is saying a lot of things… I just said ‘Jai Bhim, Jai Meem, Jai Telangana, Jai Palestine.’ How is it against [the Constitution]? Show the provision in the Constitution.” When asked specifically about his mention of Palestine, Owaisi explained, “The people there are destitute (mahroom). Mahatma Gandhi has said so many things regarding Palestine, and one can go and read.”

This statement has reignited discussions about Palestine amidst ongoing conflict in the region. Since October 7, 2023, Israel’s war on Gaza has claimed over 45,129 Palestinian lives and injured 1,07,338 people. In contrast, at least 1,139 individuals were killed in Israel during Hamas-led attacks on the same day, with more than 200 taken captive.

Owaisi’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions. While some view his statement as an expression of solidarity with oppressed communities, others argue it breaches parliamentary decorum. Advocate Virendra Gupta’s case against Owaisi underscores these tensions, focusing on whether the slogans constitute a legal violation.

The court’s notice highlights the delicate intersection of personal beliefs, political responsibilities, and legal boundaries in public office. The January 2025 hearing is expected to address these concerns, setting a precedent for how such matters are handled in Indian politics.